Linden Police Warn Residents Not To Open Doors For Unexpected Visitors

LINDEN – The city’s police department is warning residents to be wary of any unexpected visitors to their homes after an 88-year-old woman was the victim of a burglary last week.

Last Thursday evening, a man knocked on the door of a home on the 200 block of East Elm Street and told the victim that he was from the water company. He rushed past her and told her that he had to run the kitchen faucet to see if the water was green. He then told her to go into the bathroom and flush the toilet 10 times, the victim told police.

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While she was distracted, a second man entered the home. When she confronted him, the suspect told her they would need $150 for pipe repairs, the victim told police. She discovered $125 missing from her purse, which had been left on the dining room table. Both suspects then ran out of the home.

Police are advising residents not to open their door to speak to anyone because criminals will quickly walk in before you can stop them. Residents should ask them for identification from any utility workers and to call police if they are still not sure. If they are a legitimate worker, they will not mind waiting for the police.

Officials also advise that if you hire a home improvement contractor to do work, make sure they are licensed by the state of New Jersey. The license number should be on their work vehicle and any contract. Their license can be verified by the State of New Jersey website under Licenses and Permits.